In brief

Recent protests over the worsening economic crisis, particularly the shortage of fuel and other essential goods, highlight the risk of wider political instability. The authority of President Emmerson Mnangagwa is weakening, and he could lose control of the army if they join wider sector strikes over access to dollars. If Mr Mnangagwa allows greater use of dollars he will be seen as weak and indecisive, but if he maintains the current hard line, he risks plunging the country further into crisis.